Online Shopping UK - Know Your Rights by John Lynch
Online Shopping UK - Know Your Rights
With online shopping UK figures showing a
dramatic recovery from the dotcom crash of
2000, it is important for consumers to
know their rights when shopping online.
It is important to remember that when you
are buying online, you have the same rights
as when you are buying in a shop.
So if the goods are faulty, are not of
satisfactory quality, do not match their
description, or simply do not arrive then
you still have legal protection.
If the seller is based in another European
Union country, you may have the same or
similar rights as in the UK. On the other
hand, if the seller is based outside the
European Union, your rights will depend on
that country's legislation.
Bank Card Protection
In addition, purchases made with Bank cards
are protected by UK law wherever you buy
goods from. If something goes wrong, it is
quicker to go straight to the merchant,
but if there is no redress you should contact
your Bank or credit card issuer.
Therefore, it is important to have a contact
number and postal address for the retailer.
When you make a purchase, you should also
print out the confirmation screen as a receipt
and make sure you know the value of the purchase
in sterling if buying in a foreign currency.
Buying From Abroad
The Office of Fair Trading warns consumers to
be aware of different standards between
countries especially electrical goods.
You should also ensure that the guarantee is
valid in the UK.
Check also for possible hidden costs such as
VAT, custom duties, delivery charges,
postage and packaging. And don't assume that
an internet company is in the UK just because
its web address has 'UK' in it.
Consumer Bodies
If you don't receive adequate redress from
the merchant or Bank card issuer, you can
contact relevant consumer bodies.
If false marketing statements are made, contact
the Advertising Standards Authority, Trading
Standards, or a solicitor can be seen as a
last resort.
So if you know your rights, online shopping
in the UK can be as safe as popping into the
corner shop.
(C) John Lynch
About the Author
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